Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has withdrawn from the ElevenLabs Summit that was scheduled for Wednesday in New York, ElevenLabs confirmed on Monday. Huang has also canceled other planned speaking appearances, including at the Anthropic CEO Forum.
Nvidia is an investor in ElevenLabs.
Why the withdrawals happened
The cancellations follow Huang’s admission over the weekend that he had an extramarital affair. Nvidia has opened an inquiry into the relationship after being told the partner involved may be a possible Chinese spy.
In a company memo, Huang wrote: “I owe my family and all of you an apology. I was unfaithful to my wife. My actions hurt her and our children. There is no excuse for what I did. I am deeply sorry.”
Significance for the AI industry
The matter has unsettled the AI industry, raising both personal and geopolitical concerns. It has prompted questions about Huang’s ability to continue in his leadership role and about Nvidia’s ambitions and relationships in China. The combination of a high-profile CEO’s personal conduct and an investigation tied to potential national security issues has drawn broader scrutiny to how major AI companies handle leadership crises.
What happens next
ElevenLabs confirmed the withdrawal, and Nvidia’s investigation is ongoing. The findings of that inquiry and any subsequent decisions by Nvidia will determine Huang’s future public engagements and could have implications for the company’s leadership and China strategy.
